Fireboy DML connects with South African artists JAZZWRLD and Thukuthela on “IMALI,” a cross-border collaboration that takes his melodic style into South Africa's evolving 3-Step sound.
Released in September 2026, the song is part of the rollout for Fireboy DML's upcoming album, ZUKO!. The record brings together Fireboy's vocals with a production style shaped by Amapiano, Afrobeats and breakbeat influences.
About the Song
“IMALI” centres on ambition, money and the desire to achieve more. Fireboy DML uses the song to reflect on the pursuit of success, while the South African contributions give the record a different rhythmic character from his more familiar Afrobeats releases.
The collaboration places Fireboy's melodic delivery alongside the Southern African approach of JAZZWRLD and Thukuthela, creating a record that connects Nigerian and South African musical influences.
Production
JAZZWRLD handles the production, building the song around a 3-Step-influenced rhythm at about 118 BPM. The production draws from Amapiano's rhythmic foundation while incorporating elements associated with Afrobeats and breakbeat-driven dance music.
The arrangement gives Fireboy DML's vocals space over the South African-inspired groove, while Thukuthela's contribution adds another layer to the cross-border character of the record.
Release Context
“IMALI” was released through YBNL Nation and EMPIRE on September 14, 2026. It is part of the build-up to Fireboy DML's forthcoming ZUKO! album, which is scheduled to follow his 2026 releases.
The collaboration also represents Fireboy's continued movement beyond a strictly Nigerian sound, bringing a South African production approach into his current musical direction.
